How much rotational play is acceptable at the yoke in the rear differential. With the drive shaft out I can turn the yoke about an inch from left to right until the axles start to spin. Is that a sign of bad bearings or something?

 

That isn't really good. Question becomes, where is the slop. Need to pull the cover, and have a look. Does your rear make any rude noises? (the one in the damn truck. sheesh. You people.....)

 

my rear end has some slop and rotational play too. i notice when i take off from a stop, about a second after i start actually moving i hear a clunk. could that be a pinion bearing? also hear a whining howling sound when decelerating or coasting but only in gear,no sound in neutral. i think it is my t-case. havent checked fluid yet. anyone got any clues to what it could be?

 

Sounds like the rear axle. Most likely the pinion bear ate its self.